It was once a maximum security prison, and now it's a a maximum spooky place.

Halloween is next Monday!  It's crazy to think how quickly it approached.  Have you visited any of New Jersey's haunted spooky offerings?

There are events like FrightFest at Great Adventure, plenty of local haunted farms and hayrides, and even real life haunted spots. Weird NJ tells the tale of haunted spots like Clifton Road and The Devil's Tree, to name a couple.

But if you're looking for real and theatrical haunt this spooky season, there's a place that's the best of both worlds, and isn't too far a drive from New Jersey.

Eastern State Penitentiary is a former maximum security prison in Philadelphia.  Its website boasts housing infamous inmates like Al Capone, and "Slick Willie" Sutton.  Many people swear that the former prison is haunted, even calling it the most haunted place in America.

The penitentiary offers different ways for visitors to explore.  There are prison ground tours during the day, but during Halloween, a theatrical haunt takes over with Terror Behind the Walls.

I went 10 years ago with some friends and had a great time.  The scare actors looked creepy, and did an amazing job of terrifying us!  I definitely was scared at first, but as the maze went on, the fear turned into pure enjoyment and admiration of the work put into this event.

If you're not into being scared, Eastern State Penitentiary is hosting a Family Fall Festival this Sunday, October 30th.  Kids can trick or treat on the grounds, and there will be plenty of family friendly activities.  Check out their website for more information.

Eastern State Penitentiary is located at 2027 Fairmount Avenue, Philadelphia PA 19130.

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